Birda Sanders Martin

Birda Sanders Martin, 94, of Owensboro, KY, formerly of Whitesville, passed away on March 26, 2026, at Signature Healthcare Hillcrest in Owensboro.

First and foremost, Birda loved the Lord and was a devoted member of Whitesville Baptist Church. Alongside her husband, Byron, she owned and operated Martin Funeral Home in Whitesville for over 50 years. She loved being a homemaker and caring for her children. She also cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren with all her heart.

Birda was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Byron Martin; her parents, Ray and Maggie Sanders; three brothers, Herman, Byron, and Maxie Sanders; two sisters, Freda White and Wanda Brooks; and a grandson, Blakely Worth.

She is survived by her three daughters, Janet (John) Worth of Evansville, IN, Lisa Stephens of Delphi, IN, and Beth (John) Higgins of Nashville, TN. She is also survived by six grandchildren, Marty Worth, Bryan Worth, Lee Stephens, Meredith Walker, Jack Higgins, and Caroline Phillips; and nine great-grandchildren, with one on the way.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, April 3, 2026, at Whitesville Baptist Church, with visitation from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at the church. Burial will follow at Cates Cemetery. Cecil Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.